Morocco’s creative sector poised for growth ahead of 2030 FIFA World Cup, $4.6 billion opportunity

International Finance Corporation, in partnership with the Kingdom of Morocco and supported by the Federation of Cultural and Creative Industries, has released a comprehensive assessment highlighting the country’s cultural and creative industries (CCIs) as a fast-rising economic force. 

The study shows the sector contributed 2.4% of GDP in 2022, on par with capital-intensive industries such as logistics and extractives.

Driving growth and inclusion
Morocco’s creative economy is emerging as a major employment engine. In 2023, CCIs generated more than 116,000 jobs, outpacing health and financial services, while revenues reached nearly MAD43 billion ($4.62 billion), an 18% increase from 2022. Women represent 34% of the workforce, and young people are increasingly benefiting from opportunities across creative value chains.

Despite strong growth, financing remains a key constraint. In 2021, CCIs accounted for less than 0.5% of total business credit, with only 3% of firms accessing external funding, underscoring structural gaps and risk aversion among lenders.

High-growth segments and World Cup catalyst
Key segments driving expansion include fashion and design, which grew 46% in 2023; events and live arts, whose revenues more than doubled; heritage and cultural tourism, up 31%; and crafts, growing 18%. Momentum is expected to accelerate as Morocco co-hosts the 2030 FIFA World Cup with Portugal, and Spain, with special opening matches in Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay to mark 100 years since the first World Cup, boosting international exposure and investment, particularly in audiovisual production and creative exports.

Policy roadmap and investment potential
The report calls for a coordinated national strategy, expanded creative hubs and incubators, and innovative financing mechanisms leveraging intellectual property. Strengthened governance and financial structuring support for creative enterprises is also critical. David Tinel of IFC noted that the findings provide a roadmap for scaling investment, describing Morocco’s creative industries as “one of the country’s most dynamic growth drivers.”

Institutional backing and data-driven insights
The study incorporates insights from the Moroccan Observatory of SMEs and the High Commission for Planning, emphasizing robust data to shape policy. Amal Idrissi highlighted the importance of data in understanding employment and financing gaps, while Said Jabrani stressed bridging funding constraints under Tamwilcom’s mandate.

Longstanding IFC partnership
IFC has been active in Morocco for over 60 years, investing and mobilizing more than $2 billion in the past two years across sectors including small business, manufacturing, agribusiness, infrastructure, and finance. The latest report positions Morocco’s creative industries as a rising hub for growth, jobs, and global cultural influence, with clear opportunities for investors and policymakers ahead of 2030.